A chefâs secret for bacon thatâs crisp outside, slightly tender inside, with no bitter, overcooked edges.
Why Itâs Foolproof
- Gentle start renders fat slowly = no curling, no burning
- Richer flavorâless âfried,â more âroastedâ
- Perfect for thick-cut or artisanal bacon
How to Do It
- Place bacon strips in a cold skillet (cast iron or nonstick).
- Add just enough cold water to barely cover the bottom (about Œ inch).
- Turn heat to medium-high. Let water come to a simmerâit will gently poach the bacon as it heats.
- Once water evaporates (~3â5 minutes), reduce heat to medium-low.
- Continue cooking 5â8 minutes, flipping occasionally, until deeply golden and crisp.
- Drain on paper towels.
đĄ Pro Tip: The water prevents the bacon from seizing up, so it stays flat and cooks evenly. Youâll notice a cleaner, less smoky tasteâideal for BLTs or eating plain.
đ„ Bonus: How to Store & Reheat for Maximum Crisp
- Room temp: Eat within 2 hours.
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container up to 1 week.
- Reheat:
- Oven: 375°F for 5â8 minutes
- Air fryer: 350°F for 2â3 minutes
- Skillet: 2â3 minutes on medium
â Never microwave if you love crispness!
â What NOT to Do
- Donât crowd the panâbacon steams instead of crisps.
- Donât walk awayâbacon burns in seconds.
- Donât skip drainingâexcess fat makes it soggy.
â€ïž The Bottom Line
Great bacon isnât about luckâitâs about method.
- Need 12 perfect strips for brunch? â Oven method.
- Savoring 2 thick slices with your coffee? â Cold water start.
Both deliver crisp, golden, flavorful baconâwith less stress and more joy.
So grab that package, choose your method, and cook with confidence. Because lifeâs too short for sad, soggy bacon.
âPerfection isnât complicatedâitâs just bacon, heat, and a little patience.â đ„âš